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The Democratic Alliance (DA) is deeply saddened by the news of the death of Dr. Frederik van Zyl Slabbert.

Frederik van Zyl Slabbert was a truly great South African. As a politician, academic and businessman, he lived his life in devotion to improving his country. His leading role in opposing apartheid and facilitating South Africa's transition to democracy is testimony to his enduring contribution to the country he loved.

As leader of the Progressive Federal Party, a predecessor party to the DA, he fought apartheid in Parliament and presented a non-racial alternative with determination and principle. The DA of today owes much to his leadership and legacy.

He devoted his life to the development of a just South Africa, and he left our country a far better place than before.

On behalf of the Democratic Alliance I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jane, Tania and Rico and to all of those who knew him and felt the impact of his work.